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Sanford: From Bad to Worse

Update, 12:05 p.m ET.: South Carolina state Senate Democratic leader John C. Land III just issued a very strong statement regarding Sanford.

Said Land:

"The people of this state deserve complete honesty from Governor Sanford. The Governor's office misled the media, the Lt. Governor, and the people of South Carolina. Never in my 32 years as a state Senator have I witnessed a Governor and his staff act in a more dishonest, secretive, and bizarre manner. There is something very wrong here and serious questions need to be asked about the Governor's 6 day disappearance."

Update, 10:51 a.m. ET: South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford will hold a press conference at 2:00 p.m. today from his office in the statehouse in Columbia.

Original Post

The news -- first reported by the State newspaper -- that Gov. Mark Sanford (R-S.C.) had spent the last six days in Argentina not, as his staff had previously said, hiking the Appalachian Trail turns what was a bad story for the governor's future political prospects into an out-and-out public relations disaster.

"I don't know how this thing got blown out of proportion," said Sanford upon his return stateside, explaining that he had mentioned to his staff that he might be going hiking along the Appalachian Trail last Thursday before changing his mind at the last minute. Asked why his staff released a statement Monday night saying that he was hiking the Appalachian Trail, Sanford told the State: "I don't know."

Um, ok.

This latest turn in what can now only be described as a bizarre story creates far more questions than it answers. Among them:

* Why didn't Sanford check in with anyone during the five days he was "off the grid"? The Fix has been to Buenos Aires -- the Paris of South America -- and can attest to the fact that there are shops with e-mail terminals and international phones on nearly every corner. Why would Sanford not, at least, call his wife (and four boys) on Father's Day to let them know his whereabouts -- especially given that he was a nine-hour plane ride (or more) from home?

* Why did Sanford's staff insist on Monday that they knew where he was and had been in contact with him? A source within the South Carolina government said Monday that no one on Sanford's staff had spoken to the governor since last Thursday and they did not know where he was, and yet everything that came out of Sanford's office after the initial hubbub seemed to suggest that all was well. Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer accused Sanford's staff of misleading him regarding the governor's location on Monday, a claim that now seems to be right.

* What did Sanford's office tell people like state Sen. Greg Ryberg and South Carolina Comptroller General Richard Eckstrom that convinced that duo to put out statements yesterday condemning the media coverage of the event as making much ado about nothing? And, how much blowback is there from Sanford defenders who now have, to put it nicely, egg on their face?

These are just a few of the questions that Sanford now must answer in the coming days. The fact that he disappeared for six days made for an interesting -- and somewhat odd -- story. The fact that -- whether willfully or accidentally -- Sanford's staff misled the public about his whereabouts is a major problem for a candidate considered almost certain to run for president in 2012.

"With the lack of judgment he's shown, Sanford is now seriously damaged goods," said one senior Republican strategist about the incident's impact on the South Carolina Governor's political future.

Sanford did say that his wife had known about the affair, which had been going on for the last year or so, for the last five and a half months.

Having spent a significant amount of time in South Carolina due to its prominence in the presidential nominating process, I can tell you that Jenny Sanford is widely admired in political circles in the state.

She is seen as a savvy strategist and full partner in her husband's political career.

Which is, of course, what makes the affair all the more stunning.

___

No it doesn't. It explains everything. They have a political partnership, an alliance, with children and supposedly, benefits.

Why is this surprising? Marriages used to always be political alliances or survival partnerships. It's only relatively recently that marriages were based on love.

Perhaps the Republicans will put to death the family values garbage once and for all and just stick to ethics. Maybe we can actually have civil marriages as they do in Italy. If people want to get married in a church they can, but it's not legal unless there is a civil ceremony.

If the Sanford's want an alliance instead of a marriage, who cares, but dear God let the Republicans get off the morality, family values kick.

Sanford's office just released a follow-up statement to his press conference....

"I have made decisions that have hurt and will continue to hurt them, and for that I'm sincerely sorry. Jenny has stood by me through campaign after campaign, through hard time after hard time, and neither she nor the boys deserve this. Please offer them your prayers," Sanford said.

What say you, all those posters who told us to give the guy a break, every man needs a vacation, etc?

When I read this I suspect he is really really sorry...about getting caught.

I can't get over the AP photo of Governor Sanford in the "Deer in Headlights" pose.

Myself, I am struggling between the schadenfreude of gloating over another "family values" windbag showing just how much he does value family, and the reality that his personal and family life are the business of him and his family.

What "Argentinian-Leave" Sanford has going against him is that he bailed out on an entire state for 5 days.

If I was a voter/resident of SC, I have every expectation that the holder of the office of the governor takes it seriously enough to respect the needs of the people of his/her state to not go AWOL for personal reasons.

As much crap as we liberals/progressives gave when W gave temporary Presidential powers to Cheney during a colonoscopy, it is looking like the one responsible thing that idiot ever did.

Lesson to Republicans, when you pull your pants down, hand the phone to someone else. Anyone.

litero, Sanford's abuse of office derives from going AWOL without being able to be contacted in case of emergency, combined with not transferring power during his absence to his Lt. Governor. Had a life-threatening disaster struck SC during Sanford's absence requiring the immediate attention and decision-making of the Governor's office, precious hours (if not days, as well as lives) could have been lost.

By not advising the Lt. Gov. of his intended absence, Sanford left the state in the lurch. Had there been any kind of state emergency, the Lt. Gov. was not authorized to act, and the Gov was not reachable.

Remember Congressman (and John Birch Society stalwart) John G. Schmitz (R-Orange County, CA.), who when caught in the public light defiantly justified his "manly" right to maintain a second family? Imagine the toll that Mark Sanford's behavior will take on his kids. After all, one of Schmitz' daughters grew up to become Mary Kay Letourneau, and we all know how THAT turned out.

The man has not abused his office. While this is embarassing, its only embarassing. The reason we call people hypocrates is not because we want them to stop doing what they condemn, but because we want them to stop condemning others for doing what they themselves do. I dont see any reason why Sanford should be disqualified for office for any reason other than ideology and compentence.

Someone wrote “…there's no reason or excuse that a 50 something, married father of four would leave his family on a lurch for a "vacation" in "Argentina." There is no excuse why he would leave his Lt. Governor and staff on a lurch.”

Actually everything you just mentioned strikes me as a DAMNED good reason to head for Buenos Aires for a week-long blowout. (and let’s not forget “wrapped-too-tight Republican”.)

And btw how bout showing us the credit card statement and paperwork on his car rental while he was there? (Unless of course he drove from the States.) And the hotel bills? And the receipts for meals and at which restaurants? And the passport stamps?

I love the partisanship in this blog! OK people, so it's official Mark Sanford was in Argentina enjoying some time with his mistress (or beau, who knows). I wonder if her name is Evita? Or would it be Evito?

As someone else said before, I think the guys over at the Daily Show, the Colbert Report, and the late night shows might want to take the rest of the day off. After all the comedy fodder is writing itself.

You know, guys I love it when the Republicans in this room acuse Democrats of fanning the flames... First the Lt. Governor is a Republican and he is the one who started asking questions when, you know, his boss was AWOL and he wasn't around. There is also Greg Ryberg, another Republican and he was convinced everything was A-OK. I think he's a bit ticked off after going to the mat for the Governor and finding out he was lying.

Also wasn't it the GOP impeaching a Democratic President in 1999 for lying about sexual pecadillos? Meanwhile in a cave in Afghanistan...

I hope Mr Sanford practiced his tango... If Blago did a reality show, maybe Mark can do Dancing with the Stars!

A couple of days ago, I said that while the governor had made a mistake not telling anyone where he was, the story was not that big a deal. Now that it turns out he went to Argentina instead of the Appalachian trail makes this a story definitely worthy of the attention it is receiving. Why would he be in Argentina without his family on father's day?

Mortified: Believe me, Sanford is NOT indicative of the entire SC voting populace. A majority to be sure, but there are those of us who detest him, his shenanigans, and what he stands for. More than 40% of voters in this state actually pulled the lever for Obama in '08. Partly as a backlash to W, but still progress (I hope).

So does he have a receipt for his plane ticket? If it was purchased at the last minute then he just likes to travel. If it was purchased before he told his staff he might go hiking, then let the digging really begin.

But honestly, so what if he disappears. As The Fix pointed out, Argentina has CNN and the Internet, he'd have known if he had to fax in his signature for some sort of emergency decree. I mean what exactly does he have to do right now in SC?

>you Libs seem to know a lot about the seedy underworld and hiding things from people. How did you get to be such experts?

Was the class held at a turnpike rest stop? Or maybe the Mayflower hotel? Or even under the Oval office desk?<

We watched Bush and Cheney for the last eight years. If you want an education in deception and corruption, that would earn you a doctorate in the subject. Too bad you were asleep in class all that time. You obviously haven't learned a thing.

As old Rummy would say "Oh My Goodness Gracious is not Mark a chip off Cheneys old Block"
He lies, he is a contrarian,he is against abortion,he is pro-choice (sure is)he has family values like Ensign,Foley,Vitter,Craig,Burton,Dreier,Gingrich (choose one)
Hannity and the other Fox fools loved him for hating President Obama.

i'd say that if this politician had a low personal profile before...
that is over.
if he was having fun with a girlfriend, the press will find out about it. if he was having fun with a boyfriend, the press will find out about it. if either exists, he better just fess up and admit wrongdoing or as we all know, it will only get worse for him, his office and more importantly...his famliy whom looks like didn't care where he was either.
very, very careless...and i do believe he was riding a soapbox during the state wide stimulus offering wasn't he???

To be fair, Buenos Aires *is* a really cool place to visit. I tip my hat to Gov Sanford for his choice of venues.

That being said, I would *never* ditch my family and not let them know where I am. Particularly if I"m out of the country. And I would never ditch my daughter so that we don't spend Father's Day together. I had a wonderful family-oriented Fathers Day...because that's how we liberals roll. "Family values" Sanford? His wife and kids had no idea where he was on Fathers Day.

We *do* know that it's hurricane season, right? If something had happened, it appears that nobody - including the Lt. Governor - knew Sanford's whereabouts. And he (Sanford) didn't even bother to tell his Lt. Governor where he was and how long he'd be gone, etc.

That there are people on this thread defending his behavior (zouk) shows that for about 20% of the population, you can't unlearn stupid.

"Buenos Aires -- the Paris of South America." I guess I can understand this if you mean completely dysfunctional. Come on, Chris, BA is a vast wasteland and even some of its best beef restaurants are closing due to a lack of business. I'd rather be in Rio.

Sanford is a loon and he is indicative of the voting populace of SC. Sanford's initial refusal of the federal education funds shows he has no common or political sense. SC has the worst schools of all the states because "whitey" sends their kids to "private" schools and under funds the public schools. The result is people graduating from public high school, maybe, and reading at a 4th grade level.

Sanford, and his state, have made me ill, since the first time I was there in the 1960's.

When I was active duty one of my coworkers went on a week long guys roadtrip to Vegas but told his wife he was going to Vandenberg for duty. Naturally, he didn't tell those of us left at work what he had done.

The wife and six kids received an eviction notice during the week and she called the guy's supervisor who unwittingly told her that her husband was in Vegas.

Nice thing to do to your wife and kids. At least the boss knew where he was really at.

South Carolina was known for certain politicians espousing the doctrine of nullification in the 19th century. Governor Sanford leader has now made the term applicable to his future political career.It's just like abstinence--there's nothing to it.

Seems like in most states if the Gov leaves the state the Lt Gov is notified and takes charge until the Gov gets back. In this case the LG didn't even know he was gone. It's got nothing to do with Father's Day, it's all about responsibility.

This isn't rocket science: Obviously, if he's lying about his whereabouts, he's doing something he shouldn't -which is usually either sex or drugs. And if it's a politician, there's a strong likelihood it's both.

Oh, please. I'm an Independent and the back and forth R vs. D debate is so pathetic. What this boils down to is not whether a person can take a vacation, or spend Father's Day away from his family, but whether any responsible adult should (or could!) get away with abandoning their job for days without even saying - hey, I'm going away and want to be left alone and I'll be back on X day. A janitor couldn't get away with that, much less a Governor. This person clearly has ridiculous judgement or people are clumsily trying to cover up a personal emergency of some sort. It doesn't matter what the political party, most middle-managers in this country would be fired if they pulled that stunt, much less a Governor. Nobody made you take the job, dude. Resign if you feel it is too intrusive and demanding and you want to be able to disappear at will without a word.

Actually, I think the really sad story would be that Sanford felt himself on the verge of a nervous breakdown and checked himself into a super-private rehab clinic. Because of our American aversion to admitting any kind of perceived 'weakness', our elected officials can never admit to this kind of behavior and action without severe repercussions. Those of you who are old enough will remember the saga of Thomas Eagleton.

Hopefully Sanford noticed how much nicer Argentina is compared to his absolute dump of a state! How patriotic and American the Republican Sanford is- there are no places in the USA worth escaping to? LMAO!

I'm a low level government employee, albeit with a security clearance. If I go overseas on vacation I have to get briefed on the local threat and security precautions. I have to leave a number or way of getting in touch with me in case an emergency crops up. I'm thinking the Governor of a state is at least as important as I am.
Posted by: arancia12
_____
Then again for all we know he was updated before he left and he unlike you is not required to leave a number. So again unless he broke a law it is up to the voters to decide how much of an issue this will be.

As for his wife, yeah, that's between them, but since the Republicans have invited themselves into my womb I feel free to invite myself into Gov. Sanford's home. I don't have kids but I know my husband would worry about me and since I would want to know if any of my siblings became ill or if one of my dogs were sick, I'm make sure my husband had a way to contact me.
_____
Look abortion has to do with when human life begins. There there is certainly a good argument it begins BEFORE birth so therefore it has an affect on a woman's womb. Question is when is a fetus a life ALL IT'S OWN and is therefore entitled to protection from the law? That seems to be something everyone should be concerned with. Everything else is how they conduct their marriage and that is between them.

Hiking in the Appalacians is a loooong way from Argentina...but I see your point. Maybe his office thought he was hiking in the Argentians...easy mistake to make. However, this morning Sanford said he changed his mind at the last minute and went to Buenos Aires. Sort of shoots that misunderstanding thing down....
Posted by: arancia12
____
No. He's saying he changed his mind on where he was going and they misunderstood probably because it was last minute and maybe he wasn't clear enough. This will be explained. Either way, I don't see the big conspiracy.. Does it really make any difference which place it went???
-------------------------

I'm a voter. I get to decide how much of difference this makes. Remember Sarah Palin talking about how she is the CINC of the Alaska Nat'l Guard? Well, Sanford is in command of the S. Carolina Nat't Guard. So either that's an important job or it's not, Reps need to make up their minds. He is also a target of terrorism (as they tell me I am) as a US government official so I'm 99% sure his office should be able to say where he's at at any given time.

There was no invitation to discuss abortion, simply your intrusion on my womb. The operative being MY.

So on his way to the Appalacian Mountains, which go through S. Carolina, he flew through Atlanta and then changed his mind and went to Argentina and his staff just got confused. Riiiight.

Yeah, it does make a difference. It makes a difference because Limbaugh, O'Reilly, Faux, Hannity, and the other mouthpieces would be all over this if Sanford was a Dem.

Sanford went to Argentina to check out the mid-winter wild life. You know, Patagonian penguins and sea lions. The sites assured him that global warming is a hoax. He even brought back a stuffed Chilly Willy souvenir as proof. Squeeze it and it says, "Haw, haw, haw."

Buenos Aires and Mar del Plata do have some discrete "sitios de caballeros" where aging males can leave their reputations behind and indulge for a spell. All accounts settle in cash. Receipts would just be more "red tape." S. Carolina used to have some nice gents' clubs too, until the press got to nosey and the "housekeepers" started to insist on lavish gifts, jobs, and so forth.

Staunch conservatives know and share the need for occasional off-the-record daliances. "Do as I say, not as I do," is the motto. Sanfords prospects for 2012 remain undimmed. He could share the GOP ticket with Newt or Larry Craig. Conservatives can forgive one of their own, who merely sins in the flesh; but not a lie-bruhl whose very mind is consumed with such evils as public health insurance.

THIS JUST IN!
Several reports say he was spotted in the 9600 Block of South Central Avenue, (Watts Section) with Woodrow and Esther Anderson, Julio Fuentes, Rollo Lawson and Grady to meet his long lost half brother Lamont.

THIS JUST IN!
Several reports say he was spotted in the 9600 Block of South Central Avenue, (Watts Section) with Woodrow and Esther Anderson, Julio Fuentes, Rollo Lawson and Grady to meet his long lost half brother Lamont.

I wonder if the governor, while clearing his head amidst a snort of coke, a stiff drink and $5 BJ at a cheap wh0re house in BA, received a text message on his blackberry from his 4 young boys wishing him a happy father's day and asking where in the he!! he was?

It is winter in Argentina. It is likely to be winter in the Sanford household. Wife is already not cooperating in the coverup. There is no coastal road in Argentina. A short 4 mile coastal road exists in the capital, then again way south along the ranch lands there is a very isolated coastal road (very limited hotels, services, etc.). Winter driving conditions would make the southern portion difficult at best. Sanford is again lying about driving along a coastal road. Getting to and from the southern portion of the coast and driving along it anymore than a half a day would take up the more than his driving trip. This guy is melting down before our eyes.

People, sometimes you just have to go with the flow and see where circumstances take you. For instance, one day last year I was planning to canoe the creek near my house - and ended up on a gondola in Venice! That's adventure travel at its finest. Boy was my wife surprised when the bill showed up.

Buenos Aires (one of the world's largest and most conjested cities) is a 12 hour flight away from South Carolina. Which means a 12 hour flight back. A full day spent in the air. And he did this to clear his head? Sorry. This doesn't pass the sniff test.

That sound you hear is one more political career being flushed down the toilet.

My opinion of Gov. Sanford, based on a handful of television interviews, is that he is the most repugnant elected official I have ever observed. The fact that he WAS considered a presidential contender in 2012 was a truly frightening prospect. Thankfully, Sanford has eliminated himself from consideration.

Sanford has alot to answer for here. If it's true that he really didn't even tell his wife where he was that will likely come out. That will be the straw that break the political career. If his explanation matches up to facts, he has nothing to worry about. Either way, someone ends up with egg on their face.

"@Janine - No, finish up with a fun note. Have some salsa playing and some Carnival-esque pictures of the governor dancing and having a good time."

Awesome. Let's go with that.

I don't know why I continue to be amazed by some people's ability to rationalize _anything_, under any circumstances. "No, the hooker was already dead when he found her -- he tried to save her life. And he only buried the body in the woods because he knew what the librul media would say about it. Nothing to see here."

My position on the food chain is pretty middling, no catastrophes would occur if I just took off for a few days to who-knows-where. Still, if I tried a stunt like that, I would more than likely find a pink slip waiting for me when I returned to the office. Especially if I had travelled out of the country. And what kind of a dad skips the country on a leisure trip without even giving his family a hint of where he is? Maybe he is secretly moonlighting for the CIA?

Zouk wrote: "no one seemed very concerned about where the father was when it was John Edwards." You're kidding, right? Did you see anyone defending Edwards? Anyone? C'mon show us. We have that ability, you know, to see the foibles of our own ilk, unlike the lemmings of that other party which is imploding from the weight of its own hubris. I think you should stick to writing for the Times. You're out of your element here.

I want this guy drug tested immediately. Practically every American has to suffer this disgusting indignity just to apply for a job, so why shouldn't a governor who's been missing for a week be treated the same. Another case of republicans, and all politicians for that matter, enforcing laws that they don't follow themselves. Patrick Kennedy's in rehab for drug use and I'm quite positive that a quick search of Bush's ranch would turn up a hefty stash of herb and probably coke. But by all means, keep the prison system loaded with nonviolent criminals that our draconian drug laws have created. What a bunch of hypocrites.

I got to say besides running a better government us Democrats sure as hell have better senses of humor...these posts are cracking me up...the only thing funnier will be later tonight when I turn on fox news SPIN ZONE for my nightly chuckle.

Sanford said he spent his trip driving along the coast. So the governor spent seven days driving back and forth on the two miles of coastline accessible from Buenos Aires?

Another good point from a talkingpointsmemo reader:

"As someone who has been to Buenos Aires many times, just returned from BA and is in the process of moving there later this year, I can tell you unequivocally that someone who goes to Buenos Aires to 'see the coastline' is akin to someone going to New York City or Boston to see the Atlantic Ocean. As for getting away to clear his head, the greater Buenos Aires area is home to 30% of Argentina's 40 million people. While Sanford is trying to paint a picture of a peaceful drive along a beautiful coast, in fact he was crammed into a land-locked city* of 15 million people. Worst excuse ever. "

Here's what it sounds like: Sanford tells his staff (and probably his wife) that he's gonna be hiking on the Trail for a week and will be incommunicado (you know, has to get away from the pressures of governing, the stimulus, etc.). Then he hops a plane to fun Buenos Aires.
Questions: Anybody with him? Anybody see him down there? Gotta be a good reporter or two on the story as we speak. But, more at two...

The Governor disappears for 6 days, nobody know where he is, not even his wife and family, he has 4 children and he disappears during father's day ??, this makes no sense, for someone who talks about moral values and traditional values, what can of values does he have or shows acting like this ??, there is more to the story than this, this bizarre to say the least. Take a look at a map, Argentina is next to Antarctica and the South Pole, so he was not in the neighborhood.

"Just so we're clear, Gov. Sanford and his staff didn't announce that he had been in Argentina for the week. A reporter from The State newspaper got a tip that Sanford would be arriving on a flight into Atlanta this morning from Argentina and basically caught him. Once the reporter saw him coming off a plane from the antipodes he really didn't have much choice but to admit where he'd been."

"Soooo, what's the story here? The man went to Argentina instead of the Appalachian Trail?"

The story is that he disappeared for 6 days and didn't tell anyone, not his staff, not his Lt. Gov., not even his wife and 4 kids where he was going...and had no means of getting in contact with him. Oh, and it was Father's Day.

Well, all the opinions that he is "done" just because he wanted some privacy. Good for him. I like him more. What is loopy is having to explain yourself to unelected media sharks and thoughtless bloggers about a little time off.

------
And let's not forget his wife and kids, his staff, and the lt. governor.

I checked travelocity. If you decide today to go to Buenos Aires for a few days, the least it's gonna cost you is $2k for airfare. If he left earlier than he planned, he'll have to pay for that. He had to pay for hotel, food, entertainment, car rental, clothes (this was last minute and it might be a bit colder down there now that in SC). Plus, depending on layovers, it can take a whole day to fly down there.

I hope Mrs. S has a nice holiday planned for herself and leaves the boys with him.

Even without any other facts, being incommunicado for 6 days is inexcusable for the governor of any state. Again, this is so even if this was just a trip to see the city as a run-of-the-mill tourist. That said, I can't wait to see if another shoe drops.

Grrr...Land should just shut up and stay out of the way. Sanford is doing a fine job of hanging himself. No need to make this into a partisan issue. Any moron can see that Sanford screwed up badly. We don't need the Democratic majority leader to tell us.

Bizarre story to say the least. The guy just decides to go to South America on a whim? Doesnt let his friends, family or employees know? That doesnt make sense. I cant wait for the real story to come out.

Somewhere along the line I'd bet there was a female (or male) involved in this "hike". Maybe its a clever plot to be first in line to not be nominated by the Republican party??
(or did Jeb Bush already steal that title???)
I think the only honorable thing he can do is resign... or climb the Appalachians.

Appalachia, Argentina, Atlanta ... anyone could get confused. We might find out at 2:00 that he was actually in Anchorage, or Altoona, or even Afghanistan. I think Miss Teen South Carolina eerily foreshadowed the geographical challenges of her fellow South Carolinians in her now famous 2007 speech:

"I personally believe that U.S. Americans are unable to do so because, uh, some ... people out there in our nation don't have maps and uh, I believe that our, ah, education like such as in South Africa, and, uh, the Iraq, everywhere like such as, and I believe that they should, uh, our education over here in the U.S. should help the U.S., or should help South Africa, it should help the Iraq and the Asian countries so we will be able to build up our future, for."

Soooo, what's the story here? The man went to Argentina instead of the Appalachian Trail? Really, is that it? No adultery? No stealing of state funds? No molestation of interns? What's the problem with going to Argentina? It must be a slow news day in S.C. (and at the Washington Post).

Not like you have one Zouk. But then you seem to think this is an issue of political ideology instead of the responsibility entailed in an elected executive position. If any governor, mayor, or god-forbid President decided to ditch security and fly off without telling his staff/loved ones he'd have just as much explaining to do as Sanford does.

During the 1990s, conservatives referred to CNN as the "Clinton News Network" based on the fact that crazy old Ted Turner's news station was so ridiculously biased in favor of the Clinton White House that no honest person could deny it.(Snip)The American Broadcasting Co.(Snip) has gone far beyond the days of CNN's fawning coverage of the felon-in-chief, his choleric bride and the gang that couldn't lie straight.

The best chance for compromise legislation on health care may be a plan under construction in the Senate Finance Committee that would pay for a public plan in part by taxing some worker health benefits. But the union workers who helped Democrats win Congress and the White House and whose support will be key in getting a health bill signed into law would not pay the tax.

"I am being a mom today. I have not heard from my husband. I am taking care of my children." Mrs. Sanford said outside the couple's beach home on Sullivan's Island, South Carolina.

Don't sound like a happy camper to me. I can hear the tone of voice in that statement.

You GOPers are supposed to be the family values, responsibility party. That's why its such a hoot when your train runs off the rails. If you didn't have that sanctimonious stench about you, we might let you have a pass. Us "evil libs" understand and accept human frailty.

Step right up and witness the spectacular implosion of the modern Republican party:

Gov. Sanford goes off the grid on a jaunt to Argentina without telling his wife or staff; Sen. Ensign can't keep it in his pants; Tricky Dick speaks from beyond the grave to advocate abortion of interracial babies; Sarah Palin gets into a ludicrous pissing contest with a comedian...

And all that is just the last eight days. I can't wait to see what they have in store for us next. Lindsey Graham, Mitch McConnell, John Boehner, I am looking to you to keep up the momentum.

And where was King George II, Cheney, Rove and the other war criminals during this time?

Does Argentina have extradition to the U.S.?

Could it be he was doing his patrons a favor and making arrangements for alternate residence in the event there are charges brought by either the U.S. (highly unlikely), or Spain (more likely), or the World Court (a possibility, but unknown probability given George II withdrew the U.S. from the Court)

Time will tell. One indicator will be where he lands after leaving office, or if he 'magically' remains charmed within the party.

Dropping a political bombshell, New Jersey Gov. James McGreevey announced his resignation after revealing that he is gay and that he had an adulterous affair with a man.

With his wife standing by his side, McGreevey -- a father of two -- spoke in calm tones as he described his struggle with his sexuality, "a certain sense that separated me from others." It was something that he said began as a child.

================================================

REPLACE the state name with South Carolina and Gov’s name from McGreevey to Sanford and there you have it.

Classic GOP Hypocrisy!
Posted by: VAFormerGOP
__________
How do you figure hypocrisy??? Stanford as far as we know did not have an affair. McGreevey on the other hand besides the affair also appointed his LOVER homeland security adviser even though he lacked experience or other qualifications for the position. In fact this guy could not even gain a security approval from the Federal government, as he was Israeli and not a U.S. citizen. So explain again how what Stanford did is even close to what McGreevey did???

Maggots, no kidding, huh? This isnt about any smear campaign being waged by anyone for goddsakes. HE DID IT. No one questions that someone is entitled to a vacation and can go anywhere they darned please. But for heavens sakes, he is the governor of a state. It seems extremely irresponsible to me that his staff doesn't know where he is, can't reach him if his state suffers an emergency while he is away. A state that just happens to also have the third highest unemployment rate in a sour economy....and he thinks his constituents will appreciate the fact that he deserves an exotic vacation -- in Argentina? Can you say, just plain tone deaf? He wants an exotic vacation? So exotic that his own wife doesn't know where he is? How flaky is that? What are we going to uncover next, I just wonder?

"New Jersey Gov. James McGreevey announced his resignation after revealing that he is gay and that he had an adulterous affair with a man.

With his wife standing by his side, McGreevey -- a father of two -- spoke in calm tones as he described his struggle with his sexuality, "a certain sense that separated me from others." It was something that he said began as a child."

===========================================

REPLACE the state name NJ to SC and Gov’s name from McGreevey to Sanford and THERE YOU HAVE IT!

Dropping a political bombshell, New Jersey Gov. James McGreevey announced his resignation after revealing that he is gay and that he had an adulterous affair with a man.

With his wife standing by his side, McGreevey -- a father of two -- spoke in calm tones as he described his struggle with his sexuality, "a certain sense that separated me from others." It was something that he said began as a child
-----------
He wasn't actively suppressing the right of gays, though, surreptitiously excluding and persecuting gay men and women, encouraging other Americans to hate for political gain,"conquer and divide."

That's the difference.

Again, a political strategy so amateur, so weak, one could train one's dog the same way for all the inherent intellectualism needed to analyze and act the Rovian way.

Not to begrudge the man some needed time off, but at minimum he should have advised his staff and the Lt. Governor about being out of touch. Elected officials don't have the luxury of disappearing for days at a time.

Sanford is term limited as governor. Hence, why he was thinking of running for President (what a joke). Wish the SC republican legislation would impeach him. It could happen, they disagree with Sanford more than they agree. At the end of this session, they overrode 10 of 10 of Sanford's vetoes.

I'm a low level government employee, albeit with a security clearance. If I go overseas on vacation I have to get briefed on the local threat and security precautions. I have to leave a number or way of getting in touch with me in case an emergency crops up. I'm thinking the Governor of a state is at least as important as I am.
Posted by: arancia12
_____
Then again for all we know he was updated before he left and he unlike you is not required to leave a number. So again unless he broke a law it is up to the voters to decide how much of an issue this will be.

As for his wife, yeah, that's between them, but since the Republicans have invited themselves into my womb I feel free to invite myself into Gov. Sanford's home. I don't have kids but I know my husband would worry about me and since I would want to know if any of my siblings became ill or if one of my dogs were sick, I'm make sure my husband had a way to contact me.
_____
Look abortion has to do with when human life begins. There there is certainly a good argument it begins BEFORE birth so therefore it has an affect on a woman's womb. Question is when is a fetus a life ALL IT'S OWN and is therefore entitled to protection from the law? That seems to be something everyone should be concerned with. Everything else is how they conduct their marriage and that is between them.

Hiking in the Appalacians is a loooong way from Argentina...but I see your point. Maybe his office thought he was hiking in the Argentians...easy mistake to make. However, this morning Sanford said he changed his mind at the last minute and went to Buenos Aires. Sort of shoots that misunderstanding thing down....
Posted by: arancia12
____
No. He's saying he changed his mind on where he was going and they misunderstood probably because it was last minute and maybe he wasn't clear enough. This will be explained. Either way, I don't see the big conspiracy.. Does it really make any difference which place it went???

Argentina or Appalachian Trail sounds about the same to me. Obviously his staff wouldn't now the difference - we're talking South Carolina here. I once told a lady there that the Garden of Eden (Paradise) was south of Baghdad (Eufrat and Tigris) and she got upset. She thought it was somewhere in the Carolinas.

Argentina or Appalachian Trail sounds about the same to me. Obviously his staff wouldn't now the difference - we're talking South Carolina here. I once told a lady there that the Garden of Eden (Paradise) was south of Baghdad (Eufrat and Tigris) and she got upset. She thought it was somewhere in the Carolinas.

Argentina or Appalachian Trail sounds about the same to me. Obviously his staff wouldn't now the difference - we're talking South Carolina here. I once told a lady there that the Garden of Eden (Paradise) was south of Baghdad (Eufrat and Tigris) and she got upset. She thought it was somewhere in the Carolinas.

Dropping a political bombshell, New Jersey Gov. James McGreevey announced his resignation after revealing that he is gay and that he had an adulterous affair with a man.

With his wife standing by his side, McGreevey -- a father of two -- spoke in calm tones as he described his struggle with his sexuality, "a certain sense that separated me from others." It was something that he said began as a child.

================================================

REPLACE the state name with South Carolina and Gov’s name from McGreevey to Sanford and there you have it.

But here's betting there's some real hot chicas down in South America, though!
------------
Chicos.

We think he's a closeted gay man.

Which is certainly OK, as long as one doesn't use one's position to mindlessly suppress the rights of others, abusing legal privilege to oppress American citizens and therefore oppress American democracy.

"What is loopy is having to explain yourself to unelected media sharks and thoughtless bloggers about a little time off."

This is why the GOP is dead, dead, dead...

He does owe an explanation if he ever expects to be elected to an office higher than dog-catcher. Given his stature, his marital status and his position of public trust, this is not "a little time off".

Looks like the latest assortment of Republican "presidential" offerings are coming with built in self-destruct features! The stuff just gets more and more unreal each day! But this one taxes all credulity! This guy is the "Governor" of South Carolina? Okay, so we already know SC is in the top four most backward, hardcore Republican right-wing states in the country, but let's see here. After the state legislature puts its foot up his a$$ with ten (10) veto overrides in one week, he throws a hissy fit. Got that! Then, suppossedly, he secretly flies away for a whole week to Argentina on some undisclosed "state business" and "to relax". Right! However, no one in South Carolina state government, and not even his "loving" wifey, knows that he went there, or how he went there, or when he's coming back, or who's in charge of South Carolina in the meantime! Also, apparently, his State supplied cellular phone service doesn't work, and he can't be contacted. Maybe he should have taken some of that Federal stimulous money so South Carolina could afford international roaming? Sorry, but this whole story is just too ridiculous to be anything more than a load of bull crap! But here's betting there's some real hot chicas down in South America, though!
I can see the headlines for June 22, 2013 right now! "Republican President Sanford missing for five days, no contact with Air Force One! V.P. Palin says not to worry, "sometimes a guy just needs some time alone to think."

My theory... Gay Gay Gay roadtrip!!!!
B A aint called Bare Ass fer nothing. Spanish Speaking countries are worse for gays than the USA( Hard to imagine) but BA is the shining Gay beacon in south america.

Whenever a Republican does something stupid, or criminal, or even treasonous (hello to bush/cheney traitors) their predictable response is to blame the liberal media. Excuse me, but I just don't think the New York Times is responsible for the bloody and costly quagmire in Iraq or that the Washington Post secretly enticed g gordon liddy to break into the Watergate Apartments. I don't think today's Republicans possess the basic morality required to be accountable for their own stupidity.

I'm a project engineer. My colleagues and I are currently working on a most pressing project. It's extremely stressful. With time lines and critical paths to completion to meet. I think I'll just disappear tomorrow and do a walkabout. Argentina sounds good, maybe purchase some land, learn to dance the tango. hell, maybe even check out Patagonia while I'm at it. My wife and kids will understand if I disappear. I'm just a crazy kind of guy.

Well, all the opinions that he is "done" just because he wanted some privacy. Good for him. I like him more. What is loopy is having to explain yourself to unelected media sharks and thoughtless bloggers about a little time off.

What's the name of the woman -- or man -- Sanford was sharing his hotel room with? Also, this guy wants to be President of the United States, but America wasn't good enough for him when it comes to a destination for his secret love affair? Maybe he should RESIGN and go run for governor of Argentina!

I am a huge proponent of allowing nature to run its course more times than not. I say it is about time that people get a chance to 'stew in their own juices'. He must be dehydrated from all that hiking to Argentina, so may be he doesn't have much juice left. It will actually be amusing watching how everything plays out, dn't you think?

Hi, I strongly dislike the invasion of privacy that media is engaging into. If the governor likes to visit his cabin (be it in Argentina or in Applcahia), i think it is best left to him, his family and whoever his guest was at the cabin.

Sorry pal but that isn't going to fly in the real world. He's the leader of S Carolina and neglected his duties by taking off without leaving contact info or putting an alternate chain of command in place for the time he was gone. All he has to do was tell his staff "I'm gone for 6 days, Lt Gov is in charge and don't call me outside of a serious emergency".

If I take off to the waterpark for the day without telling my CEO is it an invasion of my privacy if he wants to know where the F I went? Oh yea and I went to the waterpark without my family on Father's Day for some reason. I needed to get away from my family on fathers day.......yea that's not weird at all.

The man had a break-down. This happens to mostly all human beings who do not take drugs to cope. Hindsight, he should have wisely scheduled his vacation time (when he should not be required to contact anyone) in expectation that he would need time to get away from his responsibilities like most humans. He let his circuits get overloaded. Most politicians unapologetically take vacations. He should learn from them.

Wasn't this guy supposed to be a presidential hopeful. My goodness. The republican ranks are getting totally decimated.Now all they have left are sex offenders, rednecks, nitwits, maniacs, and runaways.

No wonder they want a small or no government. That way they can continue their criminal behavior without worrying about the law.

Republican governors — once thought to be President Obama's most credible 2012 GOP adversaries –NOT living up to their billing.

South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford's mysterious disappearance from his state, topped with misinformation from his staff about where he had gone and what he'd been doing, is the latest sign that Republican governors — once thought to be President Obama's most credible adversaries — haven't quite lived up to their billing.

From Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal's cringe-inducing nationally televised response to Obama's first budget address to Texas Gov. Rick Perry's suggestion that his state might secede, GOP governors — including those said to be eyeing a potential 2012 presidential bid — haven't exactly looked like the political grown-ups many party strategists had promised.

And none has had a rockier go of it than the party's best-known governor, Alaska's Sarah Palin. The 2008 GOP vice presidential nominee has been dogged by ethics complaints and has engaged in public feuds with Levi Johnston, the former fiancé of Palin's teenage daughter, Bristol, and the father of Bristol's infant son.

It seems that the GOP’s Wilderness remains in the foreseeable time. Whatever happened to oxymoronic catch phrase “Permanent Majority”?

No, a governor cannot just go on a vacation and lie about his whereabouts. As a conservative Republican, he's supposed to be all about family values and yet abandons his family on Father's Day? Four boys and a wife and they don't know where he is? Yes, voters who elected him at least partly for those values do get to call this strange behavior into question. As a conservative Republican, he's supposed to care about how taxpayer money is spent. He better have spent his own money on this junket. My money's on an affair he's hiding. First will come the denial, then the confirmation, then the inevitable press conference confession with his poor wife at his side, then rehab, a divorce, remarriage, and a renewal of his commitment to family values, including adultery and serial monogamy.

To be honest I don't really blame his staff. They're there to assist him as needed with the running of the state. And honestly they're not his personal babysitting team; they coordinate things for him. If he does not work with them, giving them correct information for example, then they really can't do much about it being fed incorrect or no information.

I really just blame him because he's responsible for his actions and his state since he's the governor. If he'd exercised better judgment and some common sense we'd likely not be talking about this.

Hi, I strongly dislike the invasion of privacy that media is engaging into. If the governor likes to visit his cabin (be it in Argentina or in Applcahia), i think it is best left to him, his family and whoever his guest was at the cabin.

Daffy Duck in North Korea wants to try to hit the Pacific Ocean, again. A-mad-jihad wants to charge relatives for the bullets they pump into demonstrators. We're returning our ambassador to Syria, the island of peace. Congress debates health care, which is part of its job description according to Article VIII of the Constitution. The White House can't tell me where I get my car's oil changed, now that they've closed down the dealership where I bought it. Nixon said to George 41 Bush that the South Carolina legislature had two very attractive women. A governor going to Argentina for Fathers Day seems to fit in nicely.

A grown man goes on a vaction for a few days and this is the reaction??? Did he break any laws??? NO. Did he even do something unsavory.. Nothing has been reported?? So why all the hysteria??? So he didn't call home, isn't that between him and his family? As far as his office well it sounds more like a mix-up than anything else. Look IF the voters of South Carolina have a problem with their Governor leaving for a few days and not staying in touch back home then they can say so in the next election. Beyond that what's the big deal??

Posted by: sovine08
____________________

Are you really this out of touch or just purposefully obtuse?

I'm a low level government employee, albeit with a security clearance. If I go overseas on vacation I have to get briefed on the local threat and security precautions. I have to leave a number or way of getting in touch with me in case an emergency crops up. I'm thinking the Governor of a state is at least as important as I am.

As for his wife, yeah, that's between them, but since the Republicans have invited themselves into my womb I feel free to invite myself into Gov. Sanford's home. I don't have kids but I know my husband would worry about me and since I would want to know if any of my siblings became ill or if one of my dogs were sick, I'm make sure my husband had a way to contact me.

Hiking in the Appalacians is a loooong way from Argentina...but I see your point. Maybe his office thought he was hiking in the Argentians...easy mistake to make. However, this morning Sanford said he changed his mind at the last minute and went to Buenos Aires. Sort of shoots that misunderstanding thing down....

"A likely Presidential contender in 2012"?
Really? Can you imagine the commercials that would be run against this guy. There are a lot of qualities we don't want in a President, surely we can add to that list one who disappears for 6 days without telling anyone, including his wife and staff, where he is and how he can be reached. He is finished.

For the three or so people who may believe that this guy could still run a viable campaign in 2012, we can write his opponents' ads right now. First, show that red phone ringing at 3 am. And ringing, and ringing... Maybe throw in a shot of a "Gone fishin'" sign, or just have that ominous-sounding voiceover guy talk about the time that Sanford vanished for days without telling his family, staff, or Lt. Gov. (If we're really going the sleazy route, have the voice ask, dripping with innuendo, "What was he doing? And why didn't he want anyone to know?")

And to lay it on really thick, especially in the Republican primary, go for the family values angle and show a child crying, asking for his daddy, then maybe show an unopened gift box marked "Happy Father's Day"...

Maybe he was kidnapped by aliens. Seriously, though, he said he originally thought about hiking in the Appalachians but then changed his mind and went to Argentina? I'm sorry, but Argentina is a pretty long way from the Appalachians.

Didn't he promise to stop posting after the betting that Repubs wouldn't take a beating in 2008? All the bellicose claims that the country was turning to the right and the silent moral majority would be out in force to vindicate his apocalyptic world view.....

My husband just returned from a trip to South America--over Father's Day weekend! He didn't tell me or his 4 children where he was, didn't call--nothing. His staff at work didn't seem to know where he was either.

He says he just needed to get away for a few days. But I have this feeling he's not being truthful--should I give him the benefit of the doubt?

"The DEMs are at it again. Their HATE and SMEAR teams have applying started their campaigns against someone they fear. A vacation is just THAT where one likes some privacy; telling everyone where you are going just does not do it. The DEMs should get a life or at least go on a VACATION. Posted by: rvallone24"

Most of us working stiff Dems would like to be able to afford a vacation. Over Fathers Day. WITH our kids.

Posted by: ceflynline | June 24, 2009 10:57 AM | Report abuse

#####################################

The difference is that you are not a state governor who is responsible for the welfare of several million people. Also, how many working stiff dads go out of country without telling their wife and kids? No, something stinks here.

So now, as North Korea defies international sanctions and sends arms to Myanmar and Iran slaughters its citizens in the streets, President Obama looks helpless and hapless. He comes across as not having a clue how to handle the crises.

And, as North Korea prepares to launch a missile on a Hail Mary pass aimed at Hawaii, the Democrats slash 19 missile interceptors from the Defense Department budget.
The transparent appeasement of Iran's government -- and its obvious lack of reciprocation -- make Obama look ridiculous. Long after the mullahs have suppressed what limited democracy they once allowed, Obama's image problems will persist.

In the meantime, Obama's pathetic performance vis-a-vis Iran and North Korea cannot but send a message to all of America's enemies that the president of the United States does not believe in using power. That he is a wimp and they can get away with whatever they want. A dangerous reputation, indeed.

The media and Obama have portrayed the American health system as a system in crisis. They point to skyrocketing premiums -- the cost of a family policy is now $1,000 per month for employers. Obama says, "One out of every five dollars we earn will be spent on health care in a decade." Premiums for family coverage have risen 78 percent since 2001. And the government programs Medicare and Medicaid will comprise a huge chunk of the federal budget in ten years, more than any other government expenditure.

Why these exponentially higher costs? Because of increased government involvement in the health care system. State regulations have decreased market flexibility by requiring that insurers cover unhealthy individuals at lower-cost and requiring that insurers cover certain hospitals and doctors. The federal and state governments have required that health care providers care for individuals without reimbursement – which means escalating costs for those who do pay. And both federal and state health care subsidization programs have encouraged health care providers and insurance to raise costs.

The answer is more of a free market, not less of one. The answer is competition between insurers, not government monopoly. The answer is a private system, not a public one.

This is so funny. It is funny to read about the governor's bizarre behavior and funny also to see the conservatives on these pages tie themselves in knots to justify this behavior or try to change the subject when they cannot. The GOP's big tent is obviously a circus tent because they have so many clowns.

"The DEMs are at it again. Their HATE and SMEAR teams have applying started their campaigns against someone they fear. A vacation is just THAT where one likes some privacy; telling everyone where you are going just does not do it. The DEMs should get a life or at least go on a VACATION. Posted by: rvallone24"

Most of us working stiff Dems would like to be able to afford a vacation. Over Fathers Day. WITH our kids.

hey I thought republicans didn't like Latin people. Why would they immigrate to one of their countries??? Is trying to shore up the hispanic vote for 2012?? Does he plan a trip to Liberia??!!! Will he be taking Clarence Thomas??!!!! hahahahaha Couldn't he have just gone to Canada. How come he didn't go to Puerto Rico????

Thanks to our cultural fixation on emotions, researchers can now separate our feelings about certain people from our feelings about their actions. This is why polls show a majority of Americans still approve of Pres. Obama, but far fewer approve of his policies. Perhaps respondents are afraid of hurting his feelings if they disapprove of him based on their rational assessment of his work. Regardless, he still makes them feel hopeful and happy, all rational evidence about our economy to the contrary.

Based our media, it often seems like emotions are all there is. Indulging one’s feelings has somehow gained moral high-ground because feelings are something you can “be in touch with,” while suppressing emotionalism for any reason – even a magnanimous one – is viewed as dysfunctional.

But see, Ted, at least really did try to make life better for others with less power and money -- Sanford is a closted Nazi queen, IMO, a little Nazi sheep, following the party line, confused as to why, with all the press and power and oragnization, it simply does not work.
Big difference, so your analogy doesn't stand to thinking people.It really doesn't excuse either of their behavior, but there is a difference.
Posted by: thegreatpotatospamof2003
_____
Yeah there is a difference.. Stanford was out of reach for a few days and Kennedy KILLED a woman!!! But your saying other than killing a woman Ted was a good guy.. so we should let that little mistake pass but because Stanford is a Republican, even though he didn't commit any crime, he should be finished in politics. You know I sure that makes sense to you.. and that's the sad part...

Ensign outs himself for a long running affair with a campaign staffer's wife, Sanford does a Sky Masterson to Buenos Aires, These guys will do anything to divert attention from the Health care fight they are losing.

Who's next? Will Mitch McConnell get into trouble in Newport KY? (Well, OK, maybe it isn't even possible to get into trouble in Newport any more but I have a long memory)

It must be some sort of poltergeist situation where all the deceased writers from Your Show of Shows, and Laugh In, and the Carrol Burnette show are back for a big run at Halloween.

The DEMs are at it again. Their HATE and SMEAR teams have applying started their campaigns against someone they fear. A vacation is just THAT where one likes some privacy; telling everyone where you are going just does not do it. The DEMs should get a life or at least go on a VACATION.

Posted by: rvallone24

-Everytime a Republicans says or does something stupid and get called out for it it's always because "Democrats are afraid of them" - I think we're seeing a pattern that really just adds up to the fact that a lot of Republicans say and do stupid things.

He's a Governor of a state and he left without notification; leaving untold possibilities for catastrophe back home. Oh yea and it was Father's Day....while not technically stupid it was very selfish. How is that hard to understand?

well, if then president clinton or now SOS hillary were to go there without telling anyone, including their staff/spouse
-----------
And the Clinton's don't have a historical record of advocating against or suppressing the rights of others, including women and gays, or deliberately using such issues to create a political divisions, a wedge in place of sustainable policy, or deliberately acting to change the Constitution, ala Cheney and the rest.

Oh, yeah, they didn't start GITMO or publicly adovcate for the legalization of torture, either.

Ya know, that was a big neocon mistake, publicly advocating for the legalization of torture, might turn out to be the thing that finally did them in --

Perhaps I should rephrase the question, Zouk. Dissociation from one's surroundings (e.g. talking about topics nobody else is speaking about, but as if one is participating in a discussion) is a common sign of either intoxication or dementia.

Five months into his presidency, the biggest items on Barack Obama's agenda are in deep trouble, and support for his handling the economy and a ballooning budget deficit is plummeting.
Healthcare reform is mired in Democratic dissension, especially on the sky-high taxes needed to pay for it. His revenue-raising, inflationary, climate-change "cap and trade" energy bill is all but dead. His economic-stimulus plan has failed to create anywhere near the jobs he said it would, amid growing public doubts that the nearly $800 billion spending scheme will work at all.

Reflecting widespread anxiety over worsening unemployment and an economy still in the doldrums, the Journal poll showed that only a bare majority (51 percent) approved his handling of the economy, down from 55 percent in April.

The New York Times poll last week found that "a (63 percent) majority of people said his policies have had either no effect yet on improving the economy or had made it worse."

Significantly, the Journal poll found that just 37 percent now think that Obama's economic-stimulus program is a "good idea," compared to 39 percent who said it is a "bad idea," while 24 percent have no opinion or were not sure.
Support for Obama's nationalized healthcare plan doesn't fare much better. Just 33 percent say his plan is a good idea versus 32 percent who say bad idea, with 30 percent expressing no opinion.

Most ominous politically for Obama and the Democrats: 61 percent of independent swing voters say they favor "smaller government with fewer services" over "larger government with more services." Overall, smaller government wins 54 percent to 41 percent, the Post found.

So much for those on the Far Left who say a majority of Americans now favor bigger government in the Age of Obama. Clearly, they don't.

rvallone24 wrote...
The DEMs are at it again. Their HATE and SMEAR teams have applying started their campaigns against someone they fear. A vacation is just THAT where one likes some privacy; telling everyone where you are going just does not do it.

Seriously? A father of four disappears over Father's Day weekend. He's also a national figure, put forth by GOP leaders as a 2012 contender and is in charge of running a state that is in the middle of prime hurricane territory during hurricane season. He goes to Argentina? His wife and staff have NO idea where he is...

Your take is that this is a Democratic smear? This is why the GOP will spend many years in the wilderness.

As a South Carolinian, my question is why it took this fiasco for the national media to notice that Mark Sanford does not work and play well with others and behaves in erratic and anti-social ways. I've cringed as national reporters, both t.v. and print, have said how "impressive" he is. How so? He accomplished nothing in Congress. He accomplished nothing as Governor of South Carolina. He raises the blood pressure of everyone who tries to work with him with his grandstanding. This is just more of the same. Glad you all noticed, finally.

Ethel C. Fenig
In case you didn't understand the results of the November, 2008 U.S. presidential election, President Barack Obama (D) won. And while over 45% of the US electorate might be unhappy about that no one really disputes it. So why does he and his Press Secretary have to emphasize that he won when questioned about his policies? After all, he's the president, not an emperor. And that means he governs from the executive branch and works with the legislative branch. It is not solely Obama.

But he seems to think so. His previously noted penchant for saying I when speaking of U.S. policy, noted a few weeks ago, continues.

When asked if criticism from Republican senators such as John McCain (AZ) and Lindsey Graham (SC) that his reaction to the riots in Iran was weak and timid spurred his strong response against the country today he responded, according to Mark Silva of the Chicago Tribune

"I think John McCain has genuine passion about many of these international issues and, you know, I think that all of us share a belief that we want justice to prevail,'' Obama said. "But only I'm the president of the United States. And I've got responsibilities in making certain that we are continually advancing our national security interests, and that we are not used as a tool to be exploited by other countries.''

So apparently, according to Obama, McCain, Lindsey and other members of Congress are merely what? Chopped liver, with no responsibilities, no concerns about the U.S. national security interests and thus have no input into His Messiahship, Obama the One's decisions?

The senators' concerns were legitimate. Without looking at a teleprompter Obama could have answered, expanding on why he chose to use stronger language regarding Iran than previously. And certainly McCain, Lindsey and others, duly elected representatives of the people, also have responsibilities regarding this nation's security and have the right to voice their opinions about it.

is this any different than the clinton's having a home in nicaragua...
no one writes about that...

Posted by: DwightCollins | June 24, 2009 10:00 AM | Report abuse

well, if then president clinton or now SOS hillary were to go there without telling anyone, including their staff/spouse, thereby abdicating their elected/appointed duties and leaving their respective commands leaderless, than yes, it would be no different. i'm sure the press is hiding this. perhaps hillary didnt break her elbow and was cavorting w/ sanford in BA.

We read strange stories about politicians all the time. Sen. Larry Craig's "wide stance" in a bathroom stall comes to mind as one. But this one takes the cake. This is the governor who was adamant that he would not take stimulus money, then, the SC legislature overruled him so that the stimulus money would in fact come to the people of SC. Then he leaves and tells no one he is going, not to the Appalachian trail, but to Argentina! He has a wife and kids, do they go with him? No. Do they know he went there? No. Does he call them on say, oh, Father's Day of all days to speak with your children? No. Strange, this is very, very strange indeed.
Please GOP, don't let us see Sanford/Palin 2012 banners, PLEASE NO! Somebody stop the madness!

After all that cover-up, SC Gov. Mark Sanford was in Argentina during a days long unexplained absence, not hiking the Appalachian Trail as his staff told the public when state leaders raised questions about his whereabouts!

It’s getting better and definitely weirder as time passes. The behavior of this GOP "raising star" is outright bizarre! Governors don’t just disappear without telling anyone and leaving behind appropriate secession in place. I am no governor, but I can NOT just disappear from work five days, without telling anyone, and expect my job waiting for me.

What was the good governor doing in Buenos Aires, the capital of many infamous things: Capital of plastic surgery; the "sex-change" capital of the world; "underage" sex trade, etc.

I would not surprise if Mr. Sanford checks into "rehab" facility sometime soon claiming "exhaustion" of some sort....Sad, sad, sad!

The firing of Inspector General Gerald Walpin is raising some disturbing questions about President Barack Obama and his willingness to use his power to help political friends and punish perceived enemies.(Snip)The whole matter smells a bit like political retribution.

Or how about lets say he met this hot Argentinian and driving her back to his place he drove off bridge, he got out but left her to drown in the car. And lets say he didn't tell anyone until the next day..
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Ahhhh, no.

See, Ted will have to explain to God, or someone.

But see, Ted, at least really did try to make life better for others with less power and money -- Sanford is a closted Nazi queen, IMO, a little Nazi sheep, following the party line, confused as to why, with all the press and power and oragnization, it simply does not work.

Big difference, so your analogy doesn't stand to thinking people.

It really doesn't excuse either of their behavior, but there is a difference.

Just to clarify my earlier comment, during the last trip that my male lover and I made to Buenos Aires, we were sitting in a really cool gay bar attended by a very young set, and in walked Mark Foley. It was just after he'd been exonerated of the sexual misconduct charges. It was most amusing to watch him try to be cool and dance! Anyway, the point is, it's a great place for a hypocritical Rethuglican politician liar to go "gay".

Did anyone really think this bozo had a shot at 2012? Obama would have steamed rolled him in the general (if Sanford made it out of the Rethug primary).

South Carolina is full of knuckle draggers, so they'll probably defend his actions and bash "dem Yankee liberal" or elite mainstream media. However, to those American citizens who are more intelligent, his action shows a pure narcissistic and very selfish man. He left his four children and wife, without a mention of where he is going for six day? His staff lied repeatedly about his whereabouts? I don't care if he got into a huge blowout with his wife, there's no reason or excuse that a 50 something, married father of four would leave his family on a lurch for a "vacation" in "Argentina." There is no excuse why he would leave his Lt. Governor and staff on a lurch.

That must've been one serious coke/hooker bender. He should've had the tact to at least wait for the weekend after Father's Day.

What a jerk
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Honestly, this Father's Day, Obama took his family for ice cream and met with other fathers, the anti-American republican abandoned his wife and children and went to Aregentina for a fine piece of transexual or gay *ss (I'm kidding -- I think)-- no one is quite sure.

Rush Republican American values -- look at the truth, here...

ROTFLMAO

Even Bill Clinton, the old dog, while behavior dysfunctional, still loves his daughter, loves his wife and loved his mother, too -- this republican is just throwing an infantile tantrum, now, isn't he?

We won't be crying for you, Sanford. It must be those republican family values that led you to "exotic" Argentina. I guess that spending a week sniffing cocaine, smoking pot, drinking booze and meeting young Argentinean women, or whatever, was too much of a temptation. Explain that to your wife and children when you get home. If I were the people of South Carolina, or his wife, I would throw all of his stuff out on the curb. It's always sex that trips them up.

Actually, dataflunky (et al), Sanford never has to face the Palmetto State's voters again unless he decides to run for some other post. He is term limited and can't run for reelection as SC Governor in 2010.

If Sanford's staff and family really had no idea where he was this suggests a crisis of some kind that this man would prefer not to reveal. What concerns me is that if this Governor left without informing anyone including his security office he is putting himself in danger. He also shows a certain disregard for the feelings of his family and needs of the people of the state of South Carolina.

All his staff would have had to say was that he was taking a vacation, they weren't going to reveal his whereabouts, and that yes he was contacting them periodically. Their abject failure to do so only lends credence to the fact that HIS OWN STAFF & FAMILY DIDN'T KNOW HE'D GONE TO ARGENTINA!!

The DEMs are at it again. Their HATE and SMEAR teams have applying started their campaigns against someone they fear. A vacation is just THAT where one likes some privacy; telling everyone where you are going just does not do it. The DEMs should get a life or at least go on a VACATION.

If you are so hyper-partisan that you can see the multiple levels of hilarity involved in this whole situation, then you need to re-think everything. Your priorities are out of whack, and all joy has been sucked out of your life.

Republcian, Democrat, Libertarian, Green, it shouldn't matter. This is *Hilarious*.

tyrell_corp wrote: So let's say he flies to Argentina to meet up with a *fine* piece of Argentinian a**. Have you seen some of the beauties from there? Argentinian women are *hot*!
____
Or how about lets say he met this hot Argentinian and driving her back to his place he drove off bridge, he got out but left her to drown in the car. And lets say he didn't tell anyone until the next day.. Wow that would kill his political career no??? Wait what?? Something like this happened before??? Ted Kennedy did this?? Well he got re-elected many times and he is considered a political GIANT today??? Hmmm.. then maybe a few days away isn't a political killer (pardon the pun) afterall...

I assure everyone that the Republicans have their minions out there trying to dig dirt on Obama. It seems that the worst that they can come up with is his smoking habit. Unfortunately for Republicans, Obama is too open about his shortcomings. Imagine a Democratic President who is the model of family values and decency. Yet, Republicans keep throwing stones. You might say that hypocrisy has now become so common place that even hypocrisy is the new normal. The party of "hate the government" and "hate anything different" has become the party which also has instituted hypocrisy as the new norm, not to mention unwed motherhood. Does anyone need a primer on the new Republican Party and what it stands for?

A grown man goes on a vaction for a few days and this is the reaction??? Did he break any laws??? NO. Did he even do something unsavory.. Nothing has been reported?? So why all the hysteria??? So he didn't call home, isn't that between him and his family? As far as his office well it sounds more like a mix-up than anything else. Look IF the voters of South Carolina have a problem with their Governor leaving for a few days and not staying in touch back home then they can say so in the next election. Beyond that what's the big deal??

tyrell_corp wrote: So let's say he flies to Argentina to meet up with a *fine* piece of Argentinian a**. Have you seen some of the beauties from there? Argentinian women are *hot*!
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Boy, you are sure assuming a lot. With the Republican history out there, it could just as well have been a *fine* piece of the other gender.

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First thing I thought, too -- those republicans, esp. the more hard-core Soviet types, like Larry Craig, do tend to be closeted, or bi -- in fact, all this talk of a "fine piece of a* is usually a red flag, indicating a need to look deeper at the truth...

It's wrong to hypocritically supress the rights of others, especially other gay men and women, those who don't advocate against American law from a legislative or even military position.

good christ, can you imagine the HOWLS of outrage from the Vapid Right if a Dem gov had done this??

Heck, they spent $53 million investigating Clinton's BJ but didn't blink when Limbaugh's illicit drug use came out, pretended Cheney never shot a man in the face, looked the other way when Senators were caught in bathrooms, with prostitutes or their staffer's wives...

The hypocrisy of the Republicans is astonishing, which is why everyone else is so damned gleeful (look up 'schadenfreude') when they're caught out, even if Fox et al won't report it.

I'm just kind of appalled people try to defend this. There are just some jobs you cannot go off the grid for due to responsibility. Vacation? Fine but make sure you invest in a World Phone or something. Not like a politician can't afford one.

He's done in presidential asperations. The fervor may die down but all it takes is for people to bring it back up because of the magic of the internet today if he starts making serious bids.

This is very odd. I think he should have at least let his staff know for how long he was going to be away. However, I don't see a problem with just getting away and not telling people where you are if you really need to disconnect from everything. Maybe more of us need to try it. Overall, I think it's better to criticize politicians based on the votes they make, or on how well they administer the state, instead of criticizing their vacation choices.

'Argentina is a destination that should probably be added to every sex traveler's list. Argentina, specifically Buenos Aires, has the reputation for an extremely high female to male ratio. What does this mean for you? More beautiful women to choose from, of course! The Buenos Aires nightlife scene is fantastic and one of the most famous in the world.'

The above quote came from a web site I found when I googled 'brothel and Buenos Aires. Robert Duvall, the actor, once did a piece for '60 Minutes' where he escorted the reporter to his favorite buenos Aires brothel. I believe the name of it was 'Black Swan' or something similar. My guess is the Gov. Sanford, being the good GOP man that he is, took his 'Mr. Midnight' on holiday. As a result, I hope Mrs. Sanford requests her husband get tested for HIV upon his return. May the GOP continue to wallow in the mire of its' own making. Four more years!

You just have to love the present-day Republicans. The harder they try to stop Obama, the more they show up with egg on their faces. You would think that they would learn their lessons. It must be in their genes.

Is Mark Sanford for real? Fathers' Day of all weekends. Can anyone imagine the flack that Obama would have taken had he been away from his family on Fathers Day?

I just had a crazy thought to pass my mind. I wonder what Rush has to say about this latest of Republican misadvebtures.

"HAHAHAHA! what a joke. unless the south carolina militia start firing on fort sumpter (again) - south carolina's only emergency is whether some local Barney Fife get assaulted by gang bangers at a 7-11."

last state of emergency...all the way back in April 2009 during the wild fires! OMG! there's no need for a governor at all!

DwightCollins, the issue isn't that the Governor went to Argentina (per your point about a supposed Clinton home in Nicaragua)but that he is responsible for running the state of South Carolina and apparently just dropped out of sight without telling anyone where he was or lying about where he was. If, as you contend, the Clintons have a home in Nicaraguaga, I'm assuming it isn't a secret since you claim to know about it. You're trying to make a comparison that doesn't work.

To put it mildly, this is an odd turn of events for Mark Sanford. Before the end of this story appears, we'll hear all kinds of rumors, allegations, and so forth regarding his errant ways in Argentina.

Just about when you think that you have heard it all from the present crop of "conservative" Republicans, something else turns up. It would not only appear that Mark Sanford is not bothered by a recession but also has no real family ties. So much for the criticisms hurled at Obama and his family for just going out "together."

This story gets better and better. I am so enjoying the implosion of the "family values" party. What a bunch of oblivious morons. I love how the posters defending Sanford here suddenly think what he did was OK simply because he is a Republican. See, the difference is that Democrats generally would not defend the guy if he were a Democrat. It's not just about staying on message.

Does anyone else hope as much as I do that he spent his days in Buenos Aires with a mister and not a mistress? That would be awesome! Let's see how the SC voters would take to that, let alone the rest of the US...

tyrell_corp wrote: So let's say he flies to Argentina to meet up with a *fine* piece of Argentinian a**. Have you seen some of the beauties from there? Argentinian women are *hot*!
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Boy, you are sure assuming a lot. With the Republican history out there, it could just as well have been a *fine* piece of the other gender.

This is really getting Soap Operish. Yes, Sanford by his actions has proven himself to be unfit for any office, but most people have never even heard of him. To get this much play from the MSM without even mentioning the brewing scandal of US Embassies opening their doors to agents and representatives of the brutal Iranian govt, gives proof(as if any was needed)the MSM has a political wing in the White House doing their business and cooridinating with him.

Oh PLEASE! Is this really the most important thing the Post's liberal, lock step marchers can find to seize upon? Who gives a flying crap about the S.C. governor getting away from it all for a few days!?! They're going after him just like they did Palin and anyone else who pops up as a viable presidential candidate.
SOOOO transparent that it's pathetic!

From this trip and his rather unusual behavior as governor, Sanford could be manic. If he is, he should get psychiatric treatment and then get back to being governor. Mild mania is pretty common among highly successful people, but may need treatment if it starts to adversely effect behavior.

"...To those who say "I dont think he did anything wrong" or that you "respect the guy", you don't really understand what the job of a governor is. He is hired by the people of the state to run the state, 24 hours/day, 365 days/year (unless he notifies the Lt. Governor and turns the reins over formally). That is his job description. He is in charge of the state's National Guard, the State Police, and the emergency management offices..."

HAHAHAHA! what a joke. unless the south carolina militia start firing on fort sumpter (again) - south carolina's only emergency is whether some local Barney Fife get assaulted by gang bangers at a 7-11.

It doesn't matter what party he's from (although it doesn't help that this is more disastrous PR for the Republican party). He's governor of a state and has a responsibility to the residents of that state. If I did the same thing at my job, I'd be fired!

I was assuming that this is just a small story, only important to those inside the loop. But judging by people's reactions to the "Appalachia or Argentina" mystery and the Father's Day abandonment, I will be sure to look for Letterman, Conan, and Fallon to riff on the Governor in their monologues, tonight.

This guy is one of the GOP's "best and brightest" and on the shortlist for 2012 Presidential nominee. How could they not know this guy is a loon. Shows how totally out of touch and inept the Republican party is today.

There is definitely more to this story. What amazes me is the self-delusion these folks have that the facts will not eventually out. So, why don't they just tell the truth at the beginning? They never learn.

Hey folks, give the guy a break he was working on his family values while in Argentine. Sanford was just learning to tango, so he could impress his wife on their next date night. Plus he learned important gaucho rope tricks that he can teach his boys so they can be looked up at school. What a husband, what a dad, a national model!!!

Hurrican Hugo killed 20 in 2007, before it was Dennis in 2005. Several hurricanes have hit the 7 coastal counties in its history...otherwise, it's nebraska.

Aside from that, congrats on not comprehending the simple point...the gov manages emergencies in his state: calls on national guard, makes decisions, requests fed help? If he's abroad...he must discharge his duties...this starts with letting people know where he is.

"Another week of laughing at Republican has-beens. I wonder if laughing at Republicans will ever get boring?

I still want the truth (I can handle the truth) about the "eccentric" Governor Sanford. Has he returned from his head clearing hiking trip (wasn't it also to work on some projects he couldn't do because he was so busy rejecting stimulus money, or to get away from the kids on Father's Day, or something)?

Geez, if my husband went to to Buenos Aires for a week and left me at home with the kids I might say something cryptic and tantalizing to the press, too. I hope he's got his journal handy, because I'd be asking to see a little proof that he went away to do some writing.

Hurricane Hugo was the largest storm system to hit South Carolina in modern history. As a Category 4 hurricane, Hugo's winds extended far inland. Shaw Air Force Base—75 miles from the coast and over 80 miles from Hugo's center—recorded sustained winds of 67 miles per hour, with gusts up to 110 mph. The storm surge from Hugo inundated 80 miles of coastline from Charleston to Myrtle Beach. Maximum storm tides of 20 feet were observed in the Cape Romain-Bulls Bay area.

Hugo was responsible for 20 deaths in South Carolina; in North Carolina the storm killed seven, in Virginia six, and in New York one. Twenty-four South Carolina counties were declared federal disaster areas. Damage was estimated at $7 billion nationwide (7). Hugo's toll on the timber industry alone was $100 million (8).

While Hugo stands out in its destructive power, South Carolina regularly suffers from severe weather systems from tropical storms and hurricanes that make landfall in other states. See a list of tropical storms and hurricanes that have done damage in South Carolina since 1989. "

I am pleased with the way that this story is developing. I can only hope that more revelations will appear. There are some politicians who can make you believe that there is a God because they self-destruct. Sanford is certainly one of them.

I don't think he did anything wrong. When I go on vacation, I go "off the grid." It's my VACATION! I turn off all electronics, don't answer e-mails, don't hold my blackberry, don't make a call to anyone, don't watch TV, etc. I take time to clear my head and relax. Especially if something in my life is happening that feels out of control. Perhaps he and his wife were fighting...the legislative session was over, and he said "I have to get away". Maybe that's why he didn't call home and why his wife didn't know where he was? Because they were in an argument...domestic spats happen all the time and people often need, and take, space. She knew he'd be back...she wasn't too concerned. He needed his time away.

His staff should have said "he took some time away and wanted to be off the grid" but sounds like someone just stumbled and didn't know how to answer the question.

The media totally went bonkers on this turning a story into something that wasn't. A guy needed to get away from his wife, take a few days away from society, civilization and his job...clear his head, come back refreshed...and the media turned that into a crime. They should apologize to him, asap!

Posted by: rkcolbert | June 24, 2009 9:26 AM

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None of this applies if you're a Govenor for Christs Sake! You can't logically defend these actions. You're in complete denial...you probably think Bush was a good president and Palin is qualified!

There is no way that Limbaugh Nation can spin this into a normal event. I'm the office manager of a small company and I've got my cell with me in case of emergency at all times...even on vacation. One of my employees could get hurt or hell, the building could burn down.

There is more coming on this story. A weekend in the Bahamas? Sure! Who goes to Argentina on a whim? Nobody!

His wife seemed pretty curt in her answers...She didn't know where he was, she was busy "being a mom". What I hear in that is...He is not being a Dad. It was Father's Day weekend and he has 4 sons for crying out loud.

To those who say "I dont think he did anything wrong" or that you "respect the guy", you don't really understand what the job of a governor is. He is hired by the people of the state to run the state, 24 hours/day, 365 days/year (unless he notifies the Lt. Governor and turns the reins over formally). That is his job description. He is in charge of the state's National Guard, the State Police, and the emergency management offices. The job is different than most other jobs where you could go away and disappear for awhile. Its even different than say, a congressman or Senator, where their individual responsibilities are not such that they have to be available all the time. What if there was a riot or a school shooting or a weather emergency or other disaster? The system is set up such that he is the "commander in chief" under those situations. Without the governor in place, there would be a complete breakdown in key decision-making and emergency response would be greatly inhibited or fail altogether. This is a very big deal and should really shed some light on just who this guy Sanford really is (or is not).

So the people are concerned about domestic spying. A leading political figure goes missing and his whereabouts are unknown. He travels to another state, leaves the country via a major airport, and travels to Buenos Aires. His travels goes unnoticed, his travels goes undocumented, and the reason for his travel is unknow. I don't expect that there is anyway to determine if a bank account was opened in Argentina.

Interesting little early summer story for political junkies. My question is: In what alternative universe do you actually envision Mark Sanford to be a serious presidential contender, trip or no trip, oddball or straight shooter? Twitter, blogs, cable shows, sure. United States of America in 2011-12? No way.

and doubly LOL at the concern about him needing to be incognito for security and press reasons...can some of you post with common sense. He's the governor of freakin south carolina travelling to argentina for non-business. He needs a disguise for fear of security and paparazzi? LOL absurd comment.

Oh, please tyrell_corp... "America has become such an insular, petty and ignorant place. I respect the guy for taking a *real* adventure beyond our puritan shores just for the heck of it..."

There is a back story to this one that makes Jon & Kate look like child's play (hehehe). Was he REALLY in Argentina? Yesterday he was on the Appalachian Trail. Was he by himself (off our Puritan shores!!)? Are you serious?

LOL about going off the grid while on vacation as the chief executive of a state. Him vacationing is not the issue...being off the grid is. I'm fairly certain there are rules against this...what if a tornado or hurricane hit during the 5 days? what if a chemical disaster took place or trains derailed in his state.

Come 2012, most Americans -- nearly ALL Americans -- will not give a flying hoot about this incident. (Everybody save up your flying hoots just in case, though.) His opponents at that time will surely dredge it up, but by then Sanford will easily deflect it and move on to other topics.

Unless, of course, something illegal and/or immoral was going on in Argentina.

VTDuffman, your "if I had a nickel" line is one of the funniest things I've read here at The Fix, ever.

You have to consider that as a governor traveling alone, he must maintain a low profile for security reasons. Is his staff supposed to tell everyone that he presently in Argentina with no security detail? That would put him in more danger, yet they couldn't say he was missing. Would it have been better if he publicly said he was going on vacation to some other place and then secretely went to Argentina anyway?

I agree that although there is a legitimate question of who was in charge during his absence, the guy has a right to a few days without press and security. Stop trying to derail his presidential potential because he didn't want to be surrounded by security and press on his vacation.

America has become such an insular, petty and ignorant place. I respect the guy for taking a *real* adventure beyond our puritan shores just for the heck of it... and leaving all the bubble of security to see and experience a culture besides our own.

The guy is all the more worldly (if a bit impulsive) because of his brief sojourn. Only an ignoramus wouldn't respect that.

If the claim that Sanford likes to go off alone to unwind is true (and I doubt it), then what's his excuse for keeping the whole thing a big secret?

Maybe he needs to have all his loved ones and retainers in the dark so that they really appreciate the grave importance of his private meditations. Maybe he can't get it up, relaxation-wise, unless he knows that everyone close to him is having a really rough time.

Don't get me started on family values. Just look at those kids ... little robots in matching suits. What kind of parent just hares off without notice, leaving even his own children in the dark? Is it okay as long as the boys look good in official pictures?

Governor Sanford is a drama queen, a jerk and an irresponsible parent. He should get together with Sarah Palin.

rkcolbert, one would hope the elected Governor of a state would be responsible enough to hand the keys to the Lt. Gov. in the set of circumstances you describe... that didn't happen. And that's the point.

vtduffman writes
"If I had a nickel for every time I told people I was going to go hiking and then decided to travel to a different continent instead for a week without letting anyone know..."

You, like me, must pack your passport in your backpack just in case such a last minute change of heart happens on the way to the trailhead. One time I was going to do a quick weekender in the Superior Nat'l Forest and ended up spending a week in Prague. What a good time!

I don't think he did anything wrong. When I go on vacation, I go "off the grid." It's my VACATION! I turn off all electronics, don't answer e-mails, don't hold my blackberry, don't make a call to anyone, don't watch TV, etc. I take time to clear my head and relax. Especially if something in my life is happening that feels out of control. Perhaps he and his wife were fighting...the legislative session was over, and he said "I have to get away". Maybe that's why he didn't call home and why his wife didn't know where he was? Because they were in an argument...domestic spats happen all the time and people often need, and take, space. She knew he'd be back...she wasn't too concerned. He needed his time away.

His staff should have said "he took some time away and wanted to be off the grid" but sounds like someone just stumbled and didn't know how to answer the question.

The media totally went bonkers on this turning a story into something that wasn't. A guy needed to get away from his wife, take a few days away from society, civilization and his job...clear his head, come back refreshed...and the media turned that into a crime. They should apologize to him, asap!

Is that the same "senior Republican strategist" you granted anonymity to for the purpose of bashing Gov. Sanford in the last thread? Does he / she have a dog in the fight? Like I've said, if he wasn't hiking, it's a big story. I wouldn't count him out yet though.

This has been a pretty wild story and I'm eager to see what else may come out.
And I suspect Chris is right--that Sanford's trip (and the flurry of quickly-disproven excuses and stories around it) will snuff out his chances for 2012. Any opponent would pounce on this: "Where is Mark Sanford? Does anyone REALLY know?" The commercials write themselves.
Most unfortunate for Sanford is that this was an entirely self-inflicted political wound.